"Gr 6 Up -- This series, hosted by Bo Svenson, presents ten video capsules exploring ten national monuments located across the Great Plains. These sites range from natural wonders like the Devil's Tower and the Capulin volcano to the only battlefield with this designation at Little Big Horn. Each chapter, averaging ten minutes in length, begins with a virtual tour of the site followed by two segments documenting both its scientific and natural aspects and its historical and cultural significance. Geologic concepts are illustrated using easy-to-understand computerized diagrams. Park rangers familiar with the individual sites talk about each monument's unique features. The narration is both descriptive and poetic, conveying a sense of awe appropriate to the significance of these sites. Many of the monuments are related to the Native American culture of the grasslands tribes; proper attention is given to these original inhabitants and their principal role in the nation's history. This series synthesizes the various disciplines it covers seamlessly, and will serve as an exemplary tool for teachers exploring the natural history of the Great Plains."

"Shot in high definition, this beautifully lensed four-volume series, hosted by Bo Svenson and narrated by Alphonse Keasley, looks at 10 U.S. National Monuments that showcase the rich history and geologic diversity of America's Great Plains. Each half -hour disc is jam-packed with gorgeous on-location footage, archival photos, and informative interviews and commentary on historical, scientific, and cultural aspects of the various monuments. Disc one, Geologic Wonders of the Northern Plains, includes Wyoming's Devils Tower monolith, the Black Hills' Jewel Cave (23 stories underground!), and the Agate Fossil Beds of Nebraska; the second disc, Sioux Indian Wars, features Minnesota's Pipestone quarries and the Montana Little Bighorn Battle Site (upgraded to reflect both sides of the famous battle); the third disc, Manifest Destiny, looks at Nebraska's Scott's Bluff 'islands in the sky,' and first recognized Homestead National Monument; and the final disc The Southern Plains, highlights the Alibates Flint Quarry, New Mexico's extinct Capulin Volcano, and the ruins of Fort Union. Boasting extensive DVD extras -- including a slideshow, teacher's guide, travel directions, and historical documents -- this handsomely- produced set is a treat for armchair travelers, students, and history buffs. Highly recommended. Aud: I, J, H, P."